Strength, support and starting again: how allied health changed Peter’s MS journey

Living with MS demands constant adjustment – physically, mentally and emotionally. For Peter, finding the right allied health support has been central to maintaining his independence, strength and motivation.

In early 2023, Peter began attending weekly exercise physiology sessions (EP) at MS Plus’ Lidcombe Wellbeing Centre, after five years in a similar clinical gym setting elsewhere. 

"I noticed an immediate difference in the knowledge and approach of Lidcombe staff," Peter says. "Individual needs are paramount and the often-unpredictable nature of MS is taken as given."

That understanding shaped his work with Dylan, his twice-weekly exercise physiologist. Rather than pushing through symptoms, Peter’s program is tailored to how he presents on the day – adjusting for fatigue, balance changes or fluctuations in strength.

Over time, he began to see gradual improvements. "Anecdotally, I have noticed a gradual improvement in lower limb strength and, over time, similar improvement in stamina," he explains. Balance and proprioception, which can be frustratingly inconsistent with MS, have also shown signs of progress. "Although this seems to be somewhat sporadic in nature, there does appear to have been a slight upward trend."

Just as important as the physical gains has been the sense of acceptance. Dylan’s willingness to work with Peter’s abilities – rather than against them – has helped sustain his motivation and confidence.

A pivotal moment came when Tasha – a senior exercise physiologist at Lidcombe – strongly encouraged Peter to apply for NDIS funding and connected him with Dr Phu. With Dr Phu’s clinical expertise and deep understanding of the NDIS system, Peter felt supported through every step of the process.

"Without Tasha’s strong encouragement to contact Dr Phu, and the key part he played in the preparation of my application, I would have continued to avoid reapplying," Peter says. "His ongoing clinical expertise and incalculable NDIS systemic know-how helped me navigate the NDIS system."

The successful outcome has transformed what Peter is able to do. He continues to self-fund one weekly exercise physiology session, but with NDIS support he has more than doubled his time at Lidcombe and now attends for 2.5 hours each week. He has also added monthly physiotherapy appointments with Dr Phu.

The impact was noticeable almost immediately. Peter reports that after only seeing Dr Phu twice he changed from using a walking stick to a pole for walking outside the house. And that several people have commented on what they perceive to be better balance and slightly less scoliotic posture. He is also grateful for the prescription of ankle supports to help counteract foot drop – a practical intervention that has made everyday movement safer and more efficient.

Peter transitioned to six-monthly Ocrevus infusions seven years ago and has since reached maximum medical improvement with maximum medical treatment. For him, allied health is how he builds on that foundation. "My aim is to supplement this intervention with continued and now increased EP sessions to manage symptoms, increase function and improve overall health and wellbeing," he says.

Four of the five goals in Peter’s NDIS plan focus on living independently and safely, maintaining work and social interaction, building strength and wellbeing, and improving physical function. There is a clear link between those goals and the interventions he receives from Dylan and Dr Phu.

"The provision of these services is crucial to my continued functional improvement and warding off increasing disability,’ Peter says. ‘Regular engagement with allied health staff has an immeasurable positive effect on my motivation to succeed."

With the right team around him, Peter is continuing to move forward – stronger, more independent, and confident in what’s possible.

Visit our website to learn more about allied health services, or phone 1800 042 138 or email connect@msplus.org.au